Summary of Contents for Thiel CS3.6

Loudspeaker This paper describes some of the technical performance aspects, design considerations and features of the THIEL model CS3.6 loudspeaker system. It is intended to supply information for those who are interested in such matters. It is not intended to imply that good measured technical performance is sufficient to guarantee good sonic performance.

The CS3.6 is not intended to mask or mitigate shortcomings of the recording or other components in the music playback system. We believe this approach is the only way to provide the potential of experiencing all the subtle aspects that help make reproduced music a most enjoyable human experience.

In the case of the CS3.6 tweeter, a metal diaphragm is used that is stiff and light enough so the lowest diaphragm resonance occurs above the range of hearing at 26 KHz. Therefore, there are no resonances in the audible range to cause energy storage or response irregularities.

8 feet or more from the speakers. Figure 14 shows the group delay, the measure of time error, of the CS3.6 from 200 Hz to 20 KHz. For all frequencies above 300 Hz the delay is less than 0.5 ms. The general trend is toward zero delay at higher frequencies.

The usual type of capacitor for speakers is electrolytic. This type has the advantage of very low cost but also causes audible distortion due to dielectric absorption and other mechanisms. There are only three electrolytics used in the CS3.6 and none of these is in the signal path.

Therefore, when the diaphragm moves outward, the coil experiences less magnetic field than when it moves inward. This mechanism is the major cause of even harmonic distortion . The woofer in the CS3.6 utilizes a specially shaped pole piece to reduce this problem.